Pelé: I want Brazil to play Uruguay in 2014 final

The former striker, like many of his compatriots, is still haunted by his country’s defeat in the first World Cup final it hosted.

Speaking to the press at a FIFA briefing in São Paulo, Pelé said: "I would prefer to have a Brazil v Uruguay final in order that we could avenge our defeat in 1950."

But Pelé said that Brazil must also respect their opponents in this tournament, starting on Thursday against Croatia.

"The important thing is not seeking to win 1-0 or 2-0. The primary thing above all else is to respect your adversary and to be prepared for everything because in football one can play magnificently for 85 minutes and then be very unlucky in the final five minutes which can change everything.